Africa’s Business Heroes (ABH) Prize Competition
Africa’s Business Heroes (ABH) is the Jack Ma Foundation’s flagship philanthropic initiative in Africa, aimed at supporting and empowering entrepreneurs. Over a ten-year period, the program will recognize 100 outstanding African entrepreneurs, providing them with grant funding, training programs, and ecosystem support to drive business growth and impact.
Each year, ten exceptional finalists compete in the ABH Grand Finale pitch competition for a share of $1.5 million in grant funding. Beyond financial support, finalists receive high-quality media exposure, influencer collaborations, and extensive networking opportunities to enhance their entrepreneurial journeys.
Finalists also gain lifetime access to an exclusive community of entrepreneurs, investors, business professionals, and mentors, along with training programs and ongoing business development support.
Application Details
– Application Deadline: May 23, 2025
– Competition Type: Entrepreneurial Prize
– Sponsor: Africa Business Heroes (ABH)
– Eligibility: Open to both men and women
Benefits of the Prize Competition
– Grant Funding:
– Winner: $300,000
– 1st Runner-Up: $250,000
– 2nd Runner-Up: $150,000
– Other 7 Finalists: $100,000 each
– Additional Global Immersion Training: $100,000
– Global Recognition and Exposure
Finalists receive extensive media coverage, press releases, and social media promotions to enhance their visibility.
– Access to an Exclusive Entrepreneurial Network
Finalists join a prestigious community of Africa’s most impactful entrepreneurs, gaining valuable networking and collaboration opportunities.
– Mentorship from Business Leaders
One-on-one mentorship from global industry experts, investors, and business leaders helps finalists refine their strategies and scale their businesses.
– Specialized Training Programs
Tailored training in financial management, marketing, intellectual property law, investment readiness, and business growth strategies.
– Business Insights and Feedback
Applicants receive expert feedback throughout the competition to refine their business models and pitches.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify, applicants must meet the following criteria:
– Founder or Co-founder: You must be the founder or co-founder of the business.
– African Identity: You must be an African citizen or a direct descendant (child or grandchild) of an African citizen.
– Business Presence in Africa: Your company must be registered, headquartered, and primarily operating in an African country.
– Proven Market Traction: Your business must have at least three years of revenue and demonstrated market traction.
Selection Process and Timeline
1. Round 1: Application Review – Applications are independently assessed by three judges, and the top 50 finalists are selected.
2. Round 2: Video Call Interviews – Top 50 finalists undergo a 90-minute interview with experienced business leaders, with the top 20 advancing.
3. Due Diligence – A trusted third party conducts background checks on the top 20 finalists.
4. In-Person Semi-Finale – Shortlisted finalists pitch to a panel of investors and business experts, who select the top 10.
5. In-Person Grand Finale – The top 10 finalists pitch before a live audience and a high-profile panel of judges for a share of the $1.5 million grant funding.
Application Deadline: May 23, 2025.
